Transfusion

Group and Save (G&S) is where the blood group is found out and screened for any atypical antibodies - Needed if blood loss isn’t anticipated but blood may be required should there be more loss than expected.

Crossmatching is a way to ensure donor blood is compatible (i.e. no reaction on mixing) - Needed if blood loss is anticipated.

Types of Blood Products

• Packed Red cells - Used to correct anaemia or blood loss, and 1 unit only increases the Hb count by 10-15g/L.

• Platelets - Used when bleeding or platelet count < 20 (Severe Thrombocytopenia).

• FFP - Used to correct clotting defects, and contains cryoprecipitate and albumin. It can be a problem as it's expensive and carries all the risks of a blood transfusion.

  • Cryoprecipitate - Solution of Fibrinogen, which is importantly involved in the clotting cascade.

  • Human Albumin Solution - Used to replace protein in those with hypoalbuminemia and oedema e.g. nephrotic syndrome.

Complications